File PhotoScott McMath of Empty Canvas and Jeff Poilier of Beggar's Union perform music outside of the State Theatre at the 2009 Taste and Theatrics.

BAY CITY, MI — With 10 good years under its belt, Mike Bacigalupo has decided to change things up a bit for this year's Taste & Theatrics event.

The biggest change is moving the event from Thursday night to Saturday night. And, the annual kick off concert – this year featuring The Monkees' Peter Tork – will immediately follow the evening of food, drinks and mingling.

“We moved it to Saturday to accommodate downtown business so we don't interrupt their business,” said Bacigalupo, executive director. “We decided to do it all in one night.”

That's not the only change. Gone is the live and silent auction, replaced by beer and wine tastings. Those attending purchase a $5 punch card, good for three samplings of beer or wine. There is also a cash bar.

Those attending may also purchase a balloon for $5, each filled with a goodie.

“One of the bigger prizes is McDonald's cookies once a week for a year,” said Bacigalupo. “There are just fun little prizes. The money will go to the operations of theater.”

Bee Entertainment will be on hand with a photo booth for guests to capture the excitement the evening instantly. Photos are by donation.

Throughout the evening guests will be entertained by the haunting, ethereal, evocative and romantic cello music of Adam Hurst.

Performing all over the world, Hurst has been commissioned to compose and perform original works for ballet, belly dance and contemporary dance.

Hurst has studied cello at Skidmore College while still in high school and at Brown University. He also holds a bachelor of fine art degree from Rhode Island School of Design. He has also taught cello at Providence College.

What hasn't changed is the white food tents filled with all types of food and drinks from area restaurants set up on Washington Avenue between Fourth and Fifth streets. However, instead of having the main course at the beginning and dessert and special coffees at the end, everything will be laid out from 5 to 8 p.m.

Once Taste and Theatrics is over, it's time to head inside for a concert by Peter Tork and his Shoe Suede Blues band.

“Peter Tork is the big draw,” said Bacigalupo. “We are getting a lot of people from out of state. People from as far away as Arizona. Tickets are selling every day.”

That's a good thing. Bacigalupo is hoping to crack $30,000 with this fundraiser, the biggest of the year for the theater. Money will go towards the final phase of the lighting project.

“It's the biggest thing happening right now,” said Bacigalupo. “For $35 you get dinner, drinks and Peter Tork.”

If you go

What: 10th annual Taste & Theatrics

When: 5-8 p.m. Sept. 8

Where: The State Theatre, 913 Washington Ave.

Tickets: $25 for Taste & Theatrics, or $35, which includes the Peter Tork concert